Tauranga has been my home for most of my life. I've always enjoyed the vibrant community and sunny Bay of Plenty lifestyle. My passion for fostering success in others led me to volunteer with Tauranga RDA from 2013 to 2021, building lifelong connections and valuable skills. Witnessing individuals gain confidence and achieve their goals fueled my desire to make a positive impact. This passion naturally transitioned into my current role as a Teacher's Aide at Otumoetai College. I thoroughly enjoy collaborating with educators to create a supportive learning environment and directly contribute to student development. Beyond the classroom, my love for animals, particularly horses and dogs, continues to shape my interests.
My role as a Teachers Aide requires me work in a supportive classroom environment where I can provide valuable assistance to teachers with students learning and managing behaviour . I directly impact student learning by providing personalised and small group support, tailoring instruction to individual needs. Furthermore, I facilitate engaging small group activities to solidify concepts taught by the teacher. Beyond the classroom, I have assisted with creating staff timetables and inducting new staff members. I also foster connections with the RTLB liaisons to support Learning Support Coordinators (LSC) and actively participated in professional development courses, expanding my knowledge on topics like ADHD, behaviour management, Seasons for Growth, and Vision Impairment.
Four afternoons per week I provide comprehensive care for Jodie, a Para Equestrian rider with Facio Scapular Humeral Muscular Dystrophy. This includes facilitating safe riding experiences by assisting with transfers and offering on-horse support. Additionally, I assumed full responsibility for her horse Ira's well-being, encompassing training for rider safety, daily care, medication administration, veterinary and farrier appointments, and overall paddock management.
As an Assistant Coach at Tauranga RDA, I played a key role in empowering individuals with disabilities to improve their well-being and health through equine therapy. Leading at least 10 classes weekly, I collaborated with therapists and volunteers to design personalised programs that fostered confidence, a sense of achievement, and increased participation for each rider. Committed to continuous improvement, I actively participated in coaching clinics, seminars, and webinars. Furthermore, I completed Unit Standards 30166, 30167, and 30168, significantly expanding my knowledge and skillset to better support my riders.
At 4 The Love of Dogs, a Te Aroha farm dedicated to personalised care, I provided a nurturing "home away from home" experience for up to ten dogs daily. Their unique free-range approach allows dogs to roam and socialise freely, creating a dynamic pack environment. This immersive experience not only strengthened my knowledge of dog behaviour but also equipped me with valuable skills in:
Impressed by my dedication during a 3-month working holiday in 2019, The Riding Success Institute, a renowned Dressage Stable featuring FEI and Grand Prix horses, offered me the position of Stable Manager. In this role, I ensured the well-being of these elite horses, supervised working pupils, and collaborated with FEI-level coaches.
Key Responsibilities:
Provided friendly and efficient service as a Waitress at Falls Retreat restaurant in 2019. Throughout my time there, I learned to navigate a fast-paced environment, ensuring a smooth dining experience for guests.
Key Responsibilities:
Skills Developed:
Claire Lander
HOD Learning Centre
+64 7 576 2316
clander@otc.school.nz
Jodie Thorne
Equestrian Para Rider
+64 27 603 9600
jodie@wickedeye.co.nz
Claudia Cameron
Coach and Horse Manager
Tauranga Riding for Disabled
+64 21 165 9088
claudiacameron@hotmail.co.nz
Olwyn Gillisepe
Owner/Operator
4 The Love of Dogs
+64 21 081 10549
olwyn@4theloveofdogs.nz
Megan Smith
Head Coach and FEI Rider
The Riding Success Institute
+61 407 587 642